2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1983 Ford Orion
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Orion would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 816 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Dodge Ram (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1983 Ford Orion | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | Orion |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2410 mm |
